This is an exotic destination par excellence! Escapades in Papua New Guinea offer visitors a moment of total change of scenery. Papua New Guinea is divided into four regions: Highlands, Papua, Islands and Momase and has several facets : On one flat side and on the other mountainous side (its highest peak is Mount Wilhelm at 4509 m), the country also boasts a vast archipelago (the islands of New Britain, Bougainville Island, New Ireland etc).

Be careful, its road infrastructure is not too elaborate or in poor condition because of slippery terrain, but drivers who venture into it despite everything, drive on the left. Moreover, the territory has no railway system. Some airlines (Air Niugini, Pacific Blue and Quantas) link daily the capital Port Moresby with Australia, but also with other foreign countries. Nevertheless, there are difficulties to cross the border, indeed, the visa is compulsory and few daily flights, this country is a challenge even before having set foot there.

Far from the classic itineraries, Papua New Guinea triggers strong sensations. The past meets the present, just as the Papuan tradition clashes with Western values embodied by residents from Europe and America. Indeed, this country was for a long time a German and British colony, managed by Australia. As if these differences were not enough, the natives are sometimes in radical disagreements among themselves, which provoked several bloody revolutions during its history, let us quote for example that of Bougainville. There are also jealousies between the Papuans (coastal inhabitants) and the Highlanders (inhabitants of the highlands). The result of all these misunderstandings and incompatibilities led among other things to a very unstable socio-economic situation.

Be aware that the northern part of the country is exposed to volcanic and tectonic activities to which are added possible tidal waves. None of this, however, should discourage a traveller eager for new and unusual discoveries. The current situation allows you to freely visit breathtaking landscapes, taste exotic specialties, meet warm locals, fishermen, gardeners and honest farmers. The nature is still very preserved, almost wild, with some places difficult to access, but finally forms a magnificent setting: the hilly horizon of the island of New Guinea, the Pacific Ocean, clear rivers, paradisiac beaches, amazing underwater landscapes, tropical forest... Everything is united for a picturesque photo album.

The capital, for its part, is decorated with a port, a beach (Ela) and abundant vegetation and forms a constellation that coincides here and there with the buildings. It also has some chic residences, as well as internationally renowned hotels (Crowne Plaza Port Moresby, Ela Beach Hotel & Apartments, Holiday Inn). The heterogeneity of natural treasures is certainly the first reason for a stay in Papua New Guinea, but also a traditional culture that is often reflected through religion (ancient sculptures, house of chiefs and spirits, wooden cathedrals, rituals) is also interesting to discover, especially through exchanges with the inhabitants.

The country donuts in the heat during the entire 12 months of the year. Its equatorial climate makes that humidity is nevertheless very present there. Avoid holidays in Papua New Guinea during the winter, because the abundant rains water these territories. The best time for travel is from June to September.

Art and culture in Papua New Guinea
As a place where Western and indigenous cultures mix, the country is gradually developing its event programme. Several festivals reflect this fusion of customs, such as the Saint Laurence. Otherwise, Aboriginal people preserve their beliefs and legends well. Try to establish friendly relations with them and they will invite you with pleasure to discover their exotic world. Indeed, ancestral traditions are numerous in Papua. In many villages, the chante-chante are very impressive. These are long rituals, very colorful, where the inhabitants paint and dress themselves with feathers, pearls and animal skins. Sing-sing are also part of the major rituals where songs, dances and lively shows take the form of a great traditional festival.

What to visit in Papua New Guinea
Starting in the capital Port Moresby, you can stroll through the magnificent zoo or visit the National Museum.